Optional Day In Raleigh

The Wild held an optional practice today at the Rec Zone in Raleigh, although everyone went to PNC Arena for treatment, meetings, etc. Some Wild players even practiced their jump shots on the basketball court - NC State plays Appalachian State tonight, the reason for the “dress and drive” practice.

Not a lot of news today. Zach Parise and Clayton Stoner are both feeling better. Mike Yeo said he won’t know about the lineup until tomorrow. That goes with the goalie situation too. Josh Harding has the hot hand, but he wants to get Niklas Backstrom in the lineup at some point. The Wild has four days off after Saturday’s game.

Yeo was still pleased with his team’s overall effort last night. “You could argue that was one of our best games,” he told the media this afternoon. Yeo praised his team’s relentless pursuit and forecheck - outshooting a Capitals team who’s great on home ice. “We just need to figure out a way to close it out.”

Regular game day for the Wild tomorrow. Morning skate at 11:30 a.m. local time, with a 6 p.m. central time start on FOX Sports North and KFAN-FM.